Calathea Picturata Goeppertia picturata 'Argentea'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Argentea' is cherished for its ornamental foliage, which serves as its principal attraction. This plant sports broad, oval-shaped leaves that radiate an air of lushness. Each leaf is a canvas displaying a blend of deep green hues and contrasting variegation. The patterns on the leaves are reminiscent of paint strokes and splashes, which have a silvery-white or pale color that give the plant its name 'Argentea', alluding to its silver-tinted appearance. The foliage of 'Argentea' has a velvety texture that can catch the light and magnify the silver variegation, making the plant a tantalizing feature in any setting. The undersides of the leaves might contrast with the top, sporting a more muted shade, sometimes flushed with a vein of color running through them, which can add depth and visual interest. The overall aesthetic of the plant with its art-like patterns and lush textures, creates a tropical vibe for indoor spaces or shaded garden areas where such beauty might be shielded from the harshness of direct sunlight.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Marantaceae
Synonyms
Silver Krome, Zebra Plant
Common names
Calathea picturata 'Argentea', Calathea picturata var. argentea.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as a Calathea picturata 'Argentea' is not known to be toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of small children who may chew on them, as non-toxic plants can still cause choking or be a potential hazard if ingested in large quantities.
To pets
Calathea picturata 'Argentea', more commonly known as simply Calathea 'Argentea', is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. If a pet were to ingest parts of this plant, it is unlikely to cause more than mild stomach upset. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can possibly result in vomiting or diarrhea. If such symptoms occur, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
11
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Goeppertia picturata 'Argentea', commonly known as the Calathea 'Argentea', boasts striking leaves with unique patterns that add visual interest to any indoor space.
- Humidity Tolerance: This plant thrives in high humidity environments, making it ideal for bathrooms or kitchens where other plants might struggle.
- Low Light Adaptability: The Calathea 'Argentea' is well adapted to low light conditions, which is perfect for rooms with limited natural light.
- Non-Toxic to Pets: It is safe for homes with pets because it is non-toxic, reducing worries for pet owners about plant toxicity.
- Mood Enhancer: The presence of the Calathea 'Argentea' can boost mood and create a more relaxing atmosphere through its vibrant and dynamic foliage.
- Acoustic Benefits: Its broad leaves can help absorb sound, which can contribute to a quieter and more serene environment.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafts and Ornamentation: The attractive foliage of Calathea can be used in dried floral arrangements to add an exotic flair to craft projects and home decor.
- Educational Tools: The unique patterns on the leaves can be used as educational tools for teaching children and adults about plant variegation and genetics.
- Photography Subjects: Calathea is often sought after as a subject for botanical photography due to its visually striking leaf patterns.
- Color Inspiration: Artists and designers may use the contrasting hues of the leaves as inspiration for color palettes in various art and design projects.
- Greenscaping Offices: The vibrant leaves of the Calathea can be used to create a tropical atmosphere within offices, enhancing the work environment aesthetically.
- Biophilic Design: Calathea can contribute to biophilic design elements in architecture, promoting connectivity to the natural world within urban spaces.
- Screening or Dividing Spaces: Larger specimens can be used indoors to subtly divide areas or screen off less attractive parts of a room or office.
- Theme Decorations: They are ideal for themed events or spaces, such as a tropical or jungle-themed party or room decoration.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Due to its calming appearance, Calathea can be used in spaces designed for relaxation, mindfulness, and meditation exercises.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, the Calathea may have a symbolic meaning and thus can be used in cultural rituals or as part of traditional decor.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCalathea 'Argentea' is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCalathea 'Argentea' is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: With the Goeppertia picturata 'Argentea', commonly known as Calathea 'Argentea', its strikingly patterned leaves are a symbol of natural beauty and artistic expression.
- Balanced Life: The plant's need for consistent but not direct sunlight and its rythmic movements where leaves fold up at night, can symbolize the search for balance and the importance of following natural rhythms in life.
- Spiritual Enlightenment: The intricate and symmetrical leaf patterns can also represent spiritual growth and enlightenment, as they seem to follow a divine geometrical plan.
WaterThe Calathea Picturata 'Argentea', commonly known as Silver Painted Calathea, prefers soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant with about 8 ounces of water every week, but adjust the amount depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment, as it likes higher humidity. Make sure to use room temperature water and water the soil directly, avoiding water on the leaves to prevent spotting. During the winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, making sure the top inch of soil is dry to the touch before re-watering.
LightThe Silver Painted Calathea thrives best in medium to bright indirect sunlight. The perfect spot is a room with a window that receives bright but diffused light, such as a few feet away from a north or east-facing window. Too much direct sunlight can bleach and burn the leaves, while too little light can cause slow growth and fewer vibrant leaves.
TemperatureFor the Silver Painted Calathea, ideal temperature conditions range between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive in temperatures as low as 60 degrees and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts. Keeping your plant in a stable environment away from heating and cooling vents is crucial for its well-being.
PruningPruning the Silver Painted Calathea is necessary to remove any brown or yellowing leaves, which will encourage new growth and maintain the plant's aesthetic appeal. The best time to prune is in the spring or early summer, when the plant is entering its active growth phase. After pruning, it's typically not necessary to prune again for several months, unless you notice damaged or discolored leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCalathea 'Argentea' thrives in a well-draining, rich potting mix comprised of two parts peat or coco coir, one part perlite, and one part compost. The ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingCalathea 'Argentea' should be repotted every one to two years, or when the plant seems to outgrow its current pot. It's best to repot in the springtime when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Humidity & MistingCalathea 'Argentea' prefers high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% to 80% relative humidity. Consistently high humidity is important for maintaining the plant's health and vibrant foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Give bright, indirect light and mist regularly for Calathea 'Argentea'.
Outdoor
Place in shade, protect from cold and wind for Calathea 'Argentea'.
Hardiness zone
11-12 USDA
Life cycleGoeppertia picturata 'Argentea', commonly known as the Silver Painted Calathea, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, usually in warm and humid conditions, to produce small seedlings with embryonic leaves. These seedlings then mature into juvenile plants, developing the characteristic patterned leaves of the species as they grow. As the plant enters its adult phase, it produces larger, more vibrant leaves and can spread by producing offsets or "pups" at its base, which can be separated and planted to propagate new plants. The plant doesn't typically flower or if it does, the flowers are inconspicuous and not the main attraction of the species. Over time, older leaves will die back and be replaced by new growth, and the plant will enter a period of dormancy if exposed to cooler temperatures or reduced light levels. The life span of the Silver Painted Calathea can reach several years with proper care, after which the plant may eventually decline and die, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the Calathea picturata 'Argentea' is by division. This is typically done in spring when the plant's growth is most active. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the clumps of stems and roots, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the roots and at least one or two leaves. These divisions can then be planted in fresh potting soil in their own pots. It's important to keep the soil moist and maintain high humidity around the new plants to encourage root development. After a few weeks, the new plants should begin to establish themselves and can continue to grow under the same conditions as the parent plant.
